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Sabalenka, Eala Sharpen Groundstrokes Ahead of Indian Wells
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and rising star Alexandra Eala prepare for the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells.
Mar. 2, 2026 at 6:31pm
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World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and Filipina star Alexandra Eala were spotted fine-tuning their groundstrokes on the practice courts at Indian Wells as they gear up for the upcoming BNP Paribas Open. Sabalenka, a perennial contender at the event, is seeking her first singles title in Indian Wells, while Eala is set to make her tournament debut.
Why it matters
The BNP Paribas Open is one of the most prestigious events on the tennis calendar, often referred to as the sport's 'fifth Major'. Sabalenka's quest for the Indian Wells title and Eala's tournament debut will be closely watched, as both players look to make a statement in the desert.
The details
Footage shared by the official BNP Paribas Open social media account showed Sabalenka and Eala engaged in intense practice sessions, sharpening their baseline games and timing ahead of the main draw. For Sabalenka, the mission is to finally capture the elusive Indian Wells singles crown, having finished runner-up in 2023 and 2025. Eala, meanwhile, is preparing for her tournament debut as the 31st seed, looking to build on her recent quarterfinal run at the Dubai Tennis Championships.
- Sabalenka and Eala were spotted on the practice courts in the days leading up to the start of the BNP Paribas Open.
- The BNP Paribas Open is set to take place from March 6-19, 2026.
The players
Aryna Sabalenka
The current World No. 1 and a perennial contender at the BNP Paribas Open, where she has finished runner-up in 2023 and 2025.
Alexandra Eala
A rising Filipina star who is set to make her debut at the BNP Paribas Open, having recently reached the quarterfinals of the Dubai Tennis Championships.
What’s next
The BNP Paribas Open main draw is set to begin on March 6, 2026, with Sabalenka and Eala both receiving first-round byes.
The takeaway
Sabalenka's quest for the Indian Wells title and Eala's tournament debut will be closely watched, as both players look to make a statement at one of the most prestigious events in tennis.
